Why Do They Speak Spanish In Mexico? This question is common among LGBTQ+ travelers and those interested in Mexican culture. At gaymexico.net, we provide insights into this fascinating topic, offering a unique perspective on the influence of language and culture on the LGBTQ+ community in Mexico, giving you a complete guide so you can understand more about local language and culture. Learn about the historical reasons, cultural nuances, and modern-day impact of Spanish in Mexico.
1. Do Mexicans Speak Spanish?
Yes, the vast majority of Mexicans speak Spanish, or Español. In fact, Spanish serves as the de facto national language of Mexico, spoken by over 99% of the population making Mexico the world’s most populous Spanish-speaking country.
Beyond Spanish, Mexico boasts a rich tapestry of indigenous languages. The National Institute of Indigenous Languages (INALI) officially recognizes 68 national languages, encompassing over 200 linguistic variants of indigenous origin to this day.
1.1 Indigenous Languages of Mexico
Below is an overview of the ten most widely spoken indigenous languages in Mexico, including their estimated number of native speakers and primary regions where they are spoken, according to the National Institute of Indigenous Languages (INALI).
| Language | Estimated Number of Speakers | Primary Regions |
|---|---|---|
| Nahuatl | Approximately 1.7 million | Central Mexico, including Veracruz, Puebla, Hidalgo, San Luis Potosí, and Guerrero |
| Yucatec Maya | Around 850,000 | Yucatán Peninsula, encompassing Yucatán, Quintana Roo, and Campeche |
| Mixtec | Over 500,000 | Oaxaca, Guerrero, and Puebla |
| Zapotec | Approximately 450,000 | Oaxaca and surrounding areas |
| Tzeltal | Around 448,000 | Chiapas |
| Tzotzil | Approximately 487,000 | Chiapas |
| Otomí | Nearly 300,000 | Central Mexico, including Querétaro, Hidalgo, and the State of Mexico |
| Mazahua | Over 150,000 | State of Mexico and Michoacán |
| Mazatec | Around 220,000 | Oaxaca and surrounding areas |
| Chol | Approximately 222,000 | Chiapas |
These languages are integral to the cultural fabric of Mexico, with communities striving to preserve and promote their linguistic heritage, reflecting a vibrant and diverse nation.
2. Why Do Mexicans Speak Spanish?
The primary reason Mexicans speak Spanish is that Mexico was formerly a Spanish colony. In 1519, Spanish General Hernán Cortés arrived in what is now Mexico City, and by 1521, his forces had captured Tenochtitlán, the Aztec capital, establishing Mexico City on its ruins.
During the colonial period, which lasted until 1821, Spanish authorities implemented policies to spread their language and culture. Spanish became the dominant language in governance, education, and religion, often at the expense of indigenous languages.
After Mexico gained independence in 1821, Spanish remained the dominant language. The new government continued to promote Spanish for national unity and modernization. While indigenous languages were spoken in various communities, Spanish was the language of official communication and education, shaping Mexico’s linguistic landscape.
3. Why Does Mexico Speak Spanish – And Still Does?
Adopting the conqueror’s language isn’t automatic when you look at other former colonies. The Philippines returned to Tagalog shortly after gaining independence, and India maintained its rich linguistic diversity.
However, the latest census in Mexico reveals that over 90% of Mexicans consider Spanish their mother tongue. This enduring prevalence of Spanish stems from a combination of historical and political factors that unfolded over 300 years, shaping Mexico into the unique and vibrant region it is today.
4. Mexico and Its Languages: A Historical Overview
The Spanish held onto Mexico and most of Latin America for over 300 years, from the early 16th century to the 19th century. The Spaniards themselves changed their attitude towards indigenous cultures and languages multiple times during this period, influencing the linguistic landscape of Mexico.
4.1 The State of Local Languages and Leadership During the Conquest
When Cortes arrived, the Aztecs were facing internal challenges, despite Tenochtitlan (now Mexico City) being a magnificent city. The Aztecs had recently conquered smaller, local kingdoms like the Toltecs, Olmecs, and Zapotecs.
Each kingdom had its own language or dialect. While the local nobles knew Nahuatl when Cortes arrived, most of the population spoke older languages, creating a complex linguistic environment.
Map of Aztec City States before the Conquest
4.2 Early Colonial Period: The Practicality of Two Languages
Immediately after the conquest, the Spanish recognized the potential of using the existing Aztec power structures to solidify their own rule. Unable to manage numerous groups directly, they used the Aztec nobility as intermediaries.
Spanish generals in both Mexico and Peru entered arranged marriages with Amerindian noblewomen. They also established schools to educate the children of the Amerindian nobility, integrating them into the Kingdom. These children learned Spanish and Nahuatl, as well as Spanish law and Catholic religion.
Priests and missionaries began educating peasant children in Nahuatl rather than in older languages like Oltec or Zapotec, facilitating communication and conversion.
4.3 Late Colonial Period: The Shift Towards Linguistic Suppression
The Crown’s attitude towards local languages changed towards the end of the 18th century.
Europe and the Americas were experiencing tumultuous times. In Europe, the Spanish dealt with the War of the Spanish Succession, which emboldened the Catalan and Aragonese minorities into sedition.
In the Americas, a series of indigenous rebellions in both Mexico and Peru nearly succeeded, aided significantly by the fact that the Amerindians now had a common language that most Spaniards could not understand.
As a result, King Charles IV ordered in 1770 that all official business be conducted in Spanish. The Spanish Crown also began to actively persecute Nahuatl speakers (and Quechua speakers in Peru), deeming these tongues “savage and pagan”.
4.4 Post-Independence Era: Continued Discrimination
After Mexico gained independence, indigenous languages did not experience the same revival as Tagalog in the Philippines.
The politicians of the early Republic shared many prejudices against Amerindian language and culture with the Spaniards. Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, schools often punished children from rural villages for using indigenous languages in class. Native Nahuatl and Zapotec speakers also faced discrimination due to their accents.
The tide began to turn only in the late 20th century, but by then, many native languages had become extinct, impacting Mexico’s cultural heritage.
5. Are These Languages All Gone?
No, approximately six million Mexicans still speak one of 68 indigenous languages, says the National Institute of Indigenous Languages (INALI). Nahuatl is still spoken by over a million people, and over 100,000 speak Yucatec Maya and Zapotec. However, many others have very few speakers and are in danger of disappearing altogether.
Attitudes are changing at last. The Mexican government is now investing heavily in preserving these languages, tasking linguists with recording their vocabularies.
Meanwhile, the speakers themselves are done with being ashamed, and many are eager to fight to see indigenous languages used again. For example, check out this hip hop artist from Juchitan who raps in Zapotec, revitalizing and celebrating indigenous culture.
6. What is the Difference Between Mexican Spanish and Spain Spanish?
While Mexican Spanish and Spain Spanish (often referred to as Castilian Spanish) are mutually intelligible, they exhibit notable differences in pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar.
| Feature | Mexican Spanish | Spain Spanish | Example/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | Softer ‘z’ and ‘c’ sounds like ‘s’ | ‘z’ and ‘c’ pronounced as ‘th’ | Mexico: “gracias” (gra-see-as)Spain: “gracias” (gra-thee-as) |
| Common Words | – Carro (car)- Celular (phone)- Computadora (computer)- Pluma (pen) | – Coche (car)- Móvil (phone)- Ordenador (computer)- Bolígrafo (pen) | Mexican terms often reflect American influence |
| Informal “You” | Uses “tú” almost exclusively | “Tú” and “vosotros” (plural) | Spain uses “vosotros” for informal plural “you,” while Mexico sticks to “ustedes” |
| Slang | – Órale (wow/hey)- Chido (cool)- Güey (dude) | – Vale (okay)- Guay (cool)- Tío/Tía (dude/girl) | Each country has its unique casual expressions |
| Past Tense Usage | Prefers simple past”Comí tacos” | Often uses present perfect”He comido tapas” | Mexican: “I ate”Spain: “I have eaten” |
| Indigenous Influence | Many Nahuatl words:- Chocolate- Aguacate (avocado) | Arabic influence:- Ojalá (hopefully)- Almohada (pillow) | Reflects different historical influences |
These distinctions highlight the rich diversity within the Spanish language, shaped by historical, cultural, and regional influences.
7. How Can You Help Preserve Indigenous Languages?
Connecting with the culture of a foreign country from afar can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. Traces of indigenous culture and philosophy can be felt across Mexican culture as a whole.
Explore Mexican content to discover Nahuatl-based slang and Aztec dishes, offering insights into the country’s unique perspective. By learning to see a country the way its inhabitants see it, you can understand and appreciate it better, moving beyond clichés and prejudices.
To research Nahuatl further, learning Spanish can be extremely beneficial. Immersion is a useful tool to help master the language.
8. Understanding Spanish’s Role in LGBTQ+ Culture in Mexico
Spanish serves as the primary language for LGBTQ+ communication, community-building, and advocacy in Mexico. However, the influence of indigenous languages on the community should not be overlooked.
8.1 Spanish as a Tool for LGBTQ+ Communication
In Mexico, Spanish acts as a unifying force for LGBTQ+ people from different regions, enabling the exchange of ideas, experiences, and resources.
8.2 The Use of Spanish in LGBTQ+ Media and Literature
Spanish is essential for LGBTQ+ media, literature, and artistic expressions in Mexico, enabling authors, filmmakers, and artists to portray LGBTQ+ stories and experiences for local audiences.
8.3 Spanish in LGBTQ+ Activism and Advocacy
In LGBTQ+ activism and advocacy, Spanish is indispensable for creating inclusive laws and social change. Advocacy groups use Spanish to communicate with lawmakers, disseminate information, and organize community activities.
8.4 Linguistic Challenges and Inclusion
Mexico’s indigenous languages are essential to its cultural identity, while Spanish serves as the primary language of the LGBTQ+ population. Linguistic diversity and inclusion are crucial to ensuring all people are respected and have equitable access to resources.
9. Key Spanish Phrases for LGBTQ+ Travelers in Mexico
For LGBTQ+ travelers to Mexico, knowing some key Spanish phrases can greatly enhance their experience, facilitating smoother interactions and a deeper connection with the local culture. Here are some helpful phrases:
| Phrase | Translation | Context and Usage |
|---|---|---|
| ¿Dónde hay un bar gay cerca? | Where is a gay bar nearby? | Useful for finding LGBTQ+-friendly nightlife and social venues. |
| ¿Es este un lugar seguro para LGBTQ+? | Is this a safe place for LGBTQ+? | Important for ensuring personal safety and comfort in unfamiliar environments. |
| Apoyo los derechos LGBTQ+ | I support LGBTQ+ rights | Conveys solidarity and respect for the local LGBTQ+ community. |
| Soy gay/lesbiana/bisexual/transgénero | I am gay/lesbian/bisexual/transgender | Helps in self-identification and finding community. |
| ¿Hay eventos LGBTQ+ aquí? | Are there LGBTQ+ events here? | Useful for discovering local LGBTQ+ gatherings, parties, and cultural events. |
| ¿Cómo llego al distrito gay? | How do I get to the gay district? | Essential for navigating to LGBTQ+-friendly areas in cities like Mexico City or Puerto Vallarta. |
| Estoy aquí como turista LGBTQ+ | I’m here as an LGBTQ+ tourist | Helps to clarify your status and intentions when interacting with locals. |
| ¿Dónde puedo encontrar información LGBTQ+? | Where can I find LGBTQ+ information? | Useful for accessing resources, support networks, and local community information. |
| Feliz Orgullo | Happy Pride | A warm greeting during Pride celebrations. |
| Me siento cómodo/a aquí | I feel comfortable here | Expressing a sense of belonging and acceptance in a space. |
These phrases, combined with a respectful and open attitude, can greatly enrich the travel experience for LGBTQ+ individuals in Mexico, fostering meaningful connections and a deeper understanding of local culture.
10. FAQs About the Spanish Language in Mexico
10.1 What Language Did Mexicans Speak Before Spanish?
Before Spanish, indigenous languages such as Nahuatl, Maya, Mixtec, and Zapotec, among others, were widely spoken in Mexico.
10.2 What Do They Call Mexicans That Don’t Speak Spanish?
Mexicans who don’t speak Spanish and primarily speak indigenous languages are often referred to as indigenous people or by the specific name of their language group (e.g., Nahuatl speakers).
10.3 How Did Spanish Come to Mexico?
Spanish was brought to Mexico by Spanish conquistadors and settlers during the Spanish colonization in the early 16th century, starting with Hernán Cortés’ expedition in 1519.
10.4 Do Mexicans Say They Speak Spanish or Mexican?
Mexicans typically say they speak “español” (Spanish) rather than “Mexican”. The language spoken in Mexico is a variant of Spanish known as Mexican Spanish.
10.5 Why Is Spanish Still Spoken in Mexico?
Spanish remains spoken in Mexico due to the long-lasting impact of Spanish colonization. It became the dominant language through government, education, and cultural assimilation, and it continues to be the official language of Mexico.
10.6 Why Did the Aztecs Start Speaking Spanish?
The Aztecs and other indigenous peoples in Mexico began speaking Spanish due to the Spanish colonization and conquest of Mexico. The Spanish imposed their language, culture, and authority on the native populations through colonization efforts and religious conversion, leading to the adoption of Spanish as the dominant language over time.
10.7 Is English Widely Spoken in Mexico?
While Spanish is the primary language, English is spoken in tourist areas and larger cities, particularly by those in the service industry. However, knowing some Spanish will greatly enhance your experience and interactions.
10.8 What Are Some Common Mexican Spanish Slang Words?
Some common Mexican Spanish slang words include “chido” (cool), “órale” (okay, alright), and “güey” (dude). These words add local flavor to conversations.
10.9 How Can I Learn Mexican Spanish?
You can learn Mexican Spanish through language learning apps like Duolingo, Babbel, or Rosetta Stone, online courses, language exchange partners, and immersion programs in Mexico.
10.10 Are There Resources Available for LGBTQ+ Spanish Learners?
Yes, there are resources available for LGBTQ+ Spanish learners, including language courses that focus on LGBTQ+ terminology and cultural sensitivity. Additionally, many online communities and forums offer support and practice opportunities.
11. Summing Up
Mexico’s transition from indigenous languages to Spanish is a complex historical journey. Today, there’s a renewed focus on preserving indigenous languages.
At gaymexico.net, we strive to provide comprehensive information and resources for the LGBTQ+ community interested in Mexico. Explore our website to discover LGBTQ+-friendly destinations, events, and community insights.
Ready to explore Mexico? Visit gaymexico.net for travel guides, community connections, and the latest news for LGBTQ+ travelers and residents. Contact us at 3255 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010, United States, or call +1 (213) 380-2177. Let us help you plan your next adventure in Mexico.
